1996 Volkswagen Jetta TREK from North America

Summary:

Faults:

Although I don't like spending a small fortune to take it to the dealer for maintenance, it has proven wise to do so.

General Comments:

I Love it!!

My Jetta has been through heck and back with me. I was in a relationship with a new car dealer who did not deal with VW's, yet I refused to give up my car. (I figured since I was paying for it, why should he care?)

I know all of the little nuances about it and I know just how to drive and treat my VW on the road.

-distributor cap (wouldn't start in the rain or even if it was 'slightly' damp out.

-spark plugs.

-driver side door lock.

-some dashboard lights no longer work.

-Alternator.

-starter.

-alarm will go off if you open the trunk and the door are locked!?!?

-new exhaust.

-car was idling so low that it would stall out when you stopped.

-body moulding has been re-glued twice.

And! the biggest kicker! I had my whole transmission replaced a year ago... Guess where my car is RIGHT now... that's right... getting another transmission. It's been in the shop for almost a week 'waiting for the parts'.

I'm not even going to get into the $$$$ costs that all of these repairs have cost me. I think I've spent more in repairs that I initally paid for the car.

General Comments:

Car is fun to drive, but I think I got a real lemon. All of the parts are expensive to replace and I will be glad to see the day that I can afford to get something else! Then again, that day should be coming soon cause I can't afford to keep fixing it!

Check engine light is on constantly... I have had paid $2000 in replacing sensors to find out that it won't turn off... mechanic says it must be "defective" main computer... supposedly (he says) it is a common problem for Jettas.

There is no glove box.

Tires small, plastic covers chip and crack and peel easily... have had them replaced once... looked like old ones with in 2 months.

General Comments:

Despite all these mechanical issues, I really love the way this car drives. A major improvement on my last car. (An old, although reliable '86 Chevy Nova)

I love the way it looks and the gear shifter is smooth. I'm short so all the controls, etc. are with in perfect reach. Visibility is great. I really like the rear window defrost, A/C, moon roof, and stereo. When locks worked, the built-in alarm gave me peace of mind. I have been driving it for almost 7 years, so I enjoy the comfort, feels like home every time I get behind the wheel.

Not much body rust, which surprises me since I only wash it about 1 time during Ohio winter... lots of salt.